Brain pacemaker targets severe depression
NCT ID NCT00367003
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tests whether deep brain stimulation (DBS) can help people with severe depression that hasn't improved with other treatments. Participants have a device surgically implanted to stimulate a specific brain area, then receive active stimulation for six months along with behavioral therapy. The goal is to see if this approach safely reduces depression symptoms over the long term.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- deep brain stimulation device
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could offer a new option for people with severe depression that hasn't improved with standard treatments.
- What could go wrong
- This is an early-stage study with a small number of participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Brain surgery carries risks like infection or bleeding.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for BIPOLAR DISORDER are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Emory University School of Medicine
Atlanta, Georgia, 30322, United States
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
- Can a structured care pathway ease teen depression?
- Can a nasal spray break through tough depression?
- Could a new drug offer hope for Treatment-Resistant depression?
- Targeting depression: can MRI-Guided brain zaps rewire key circuits?
- Can a psychedelic trip plus a gentle ear zap lift depression?
- Can a web app get people moving in mental health residential care?